NEWS

Boy named honorary Pickerington Police Chief

By: Josh MesserlyNews/Production DirectorMarch 6, 2018

The City of Pickerington had a new Police Chief on March 5th, just for one day. That was the day 7 year-old Deany Bandavanis was named honorary police Chief. He and his older brother, Keller, got to ride in a cruiser, look inside a helicopter, play with a K9 and check out the inside of a SWAT truck. He even handcuffed a “bad guy”!

The “Police Chief for a Day” honor came one day after Deany celebrated his 7th birthday and comes as he continues to battle Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma. DIPG is a rare tumor that starts on the stem of the brain and has no known cure.

Deany, however, has been receiving treatments in Mexico. His mom, Ashley, says Deany is doing really well with treatments and soon will outpace a twelve month prognosis given by doctors. Cost for his medical treatments are also a financial burden for his family, as fundraisers and online donations are helping to defray some of those costs. You can learn more about Deany’s progress by visiting the “Deany Strong” page on Facebook (see link below).

Caring for Kevin

By: Josh MesserlyNews/Production DirectorFebruary 8, 2018

Earlier this year, Kevin Cyphert had emergency surgery for a malignant brain tumor. Neurosurgeons were able to remove half of it. Kevin was given less than a year to live and will undergo radiation and chemotherapy treatments.

He and his fiance, Ashton, were to get married on March 10, but have delayed that and money spent on the venue are non-refundable. The family has set up a Go Fund Me account to raise funds for his medical bills. If you are unable to give, the family also is asking for prayers. You can also keep up with his progress on a special Facebook page.